Faith or Works: Which Path Leads to God?
In this article, you will learn how Numbers 15:13 contradicts Galatians 2:16, Romans 3:28, Ephesians 2:8-9 and Hebrews 10:1. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible, a sacred text for millions, sometimes presents messages that seem to contradict each other. For example, consider the instructions in Numbers 15:13. Here, Moses instructs that everyone born in the land should offer a special gift to God, something to be burned with an aroma pleasing to Him. This directive highlights the importance of adhering to specific laws to express devotion and gratitude toward God.
However, when we turn to the New Testament, we find verses that emphasize a different pathway to righteousness, focusing on faith rather than ritualistic observances. Galatians 2:16, for instance, underscores the belief in Jesus Christ as the channel for justification, diminishing the role of following the law to achieve salvation. Similarly, Romans 3:28 argues that a person is justified by faith alone, apart from the deeds prescribed by the law.
Ephesians 2:8-9 further underscores this viewpoint, stressing that salvation comes not through works but through faith and God's grace, a perspective that appears to stand in opposition to the law-centered message found in Numbers. Additionally, Hebrews 10:1 describes the law as merely a shadow of forthcoming good things, suggesting it’s a hint of something greater rather than the essence, contrasting the direct application present in Moses’s instructions.
Imagine two roads leading to a destination, one paved with bricks of arduously following rules and rituals, and the other untouched, inviting travelers to walk it with faith alone. The apparent contradiction between these routes can puzzle readers: Should we adhere to ritualistic law, like a ceremonial gift for a scent pleasing to God, or lean on faith and grace as New Testament teachings suggest?
Such verses prompt profound reflection. Can they coexist harmoniously, or do they demand that believers choose one path over the other? This spiritual exploration continues to inspire debate and dialogue among those seeking the most fitting expression of their faith.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Numbers 15:13 | All that are born of the country shall do these things after this manner, in offering an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD. |
| 2. | Galatians 2:16 | Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. |
| 3. | Romans 3:28 | Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. |
| 4. | Ephesians 2:8-9 | For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God: |
| 5. | Hebrews 10:1 | For the law having a shadow of good things to come, [and] not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. |